Portugal

What happens when a global super power fades away and becomes yesterday’s news? It becomes as magnificent as Portugal.

Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, is a testament to a great country and an empire that spanned the globe. Relics and memories of the glory days of a rich and powerful maritime tradition sit cheek by jowl with symbols of modernity.

Praça do Comércio – Lisbon, Portugal

Which is not to say that Portugal is some kind of backwater. It exudes professionalism and an excellent combination of laughter, efficiency and joie de vivre.

It is easy to explore the capital, Lisbon, since the public transportation works like clockwork. Venture outside the city and you will see that smooth roads and efficient trains are typical round here.

I have to confess that I am biased; I would love to live in Lisbon someday as I have always felt at home when in the city. It is on my ‘Places to live in’ list, like so many others.

One travel idea I have is to drive along the entire coast of Portugal from the northern part to the southernmost tip. Spring/Summer would be ideal for this sort of thing before it gets to be too hot. Coupling it with a bit of surfing on the Atlantic would also be a good idea.